Curriculum & Timetable Information

Curriculum & Timetable Information

Our Vision:

The philosophy of The Duston School is that each pupil is entitled to a curriculum that prepares them for life’s opportunities, responsibilities and experiences. Our curriculum is designed to enable each individual to develop their maximum potential through stimulating and challenging pathways and by carefully monitoring each student’s social and academic progress. We believe that every student is capable of excellence and encourage each student to push themselves to achieve their potential.

Fundamental British Values at The Duston School

Throughout our curriculum and ethos we aim to promote fundamental British values within all aspects of The Duston School. We expect individuals associated with our school to aim to adhere and respect these values which unite us all regardless of faith, ethnicity, culture or beliefs.

The government set out its definition of British values in the 2011 ‘Prevent Strategy’ – values of;

· Democracy

· Rule of law

· Individual liberty

· Mutual respect and tolerance of different faiths and beliefs

We uphold the values of tolerance, equality, respect, co-operation, responsibility, compassion and democracy through the school’s RESPECT agenda. These values are taught throughout the curriculum but we ensure that they are embedded through a variety of forums; assemblies, whole school themed weeks, positive behaviours, charity work and student voice.

We have high aspiration for all of our pupils regardless of backgrounds, individual skills and talents. We believe that our pupils can contribute positively to the future as a responsible, confident and skilled learner with a desire to play an active role in society.

Key Stage 3

All students study the core curriculum which includes English, mathematics, science, physical education, History, Geography, ICT and global education.

All students follow a two week timetable where each lesson is 60 minutes long.

Year 7

No of lessons

Year 8

No of lessons

English

9

English

9

Maths

8

Maths

8

Science

8

Science

8

Spanish

3

Spanish

3

PE

3

PE

3

Creative carousel*

3

Creative carousel*

6

History

4

History

4

Geography

4

Geography

4

Computer Science

2

Computer Science

2

Global

2

Global

2

Drama

2

Drama

2

Literacy

2

Literacy

2

Total

50

Total

50

* Art and design based subjects are taught in a 6 week carousel, this enables students to sample all of the creative disciplines.

For students entering in Year 7 below the 100 standard age score from KS2, a primary specialist will teach these students in small groups in their non-English and Maths lessons until this secondary standard is met.

The Key Stage Four curriculum has been designed to give every pupil the opportunity to achieve their full potential and to maximise the choices available at Post-16. In Key Stage 4 all students follow the core subjects of GCSE English, Mathematics, and Science. In addition all pupils participate in core PE and Global education.

Year 10

2 Year GCSEs

Number of lessons

Year 11 – Legacy 1 Year GCSEs

Number of lessons

English

9

English

9

Maths

8

Maths

9

Science

8

Science

8

PE

3

PE

2

Global

2

Option A

11

Option A

5

Option B

11

Option B

5

Option C

5

Option D

5

Total

50

Total

50

Key Stage 5

Each post-16 student has their own specific goal and ambition and we ensure that each student has a personalised curriculum that meets their individual requirements. Students choose from a diverse range of qualifications so that they are able to participate in challenging and enjoyable courses.

In addition all Post-16 students undertake an enrichment option in order to extend their skills and prepare them for university and later life. Students can opt from a range of options including Core Maths, Level 3 Sports Leader course or Extended Project Qualification. Students who have yet to secure a C grade in GCSE English or Maths are required to resit these examinations to ensure success. All students across the cohort complete a Horizons programme which looks to develop key skills needed for university applications, apprenticeships and interviews etc.